Having problems getting a bed ready

19 years ago

Ok so the first little spot I want to plant is a nice wedge between my house, driveway and path. The only problem is who ever lived here before used gravel as mulch. I have started to try to dig the gravel out, but so far I'm down 4 inches and still dealing with rocks.

So should I keep digging until it's clear and just add new soil? Or should I just go another couple of inches to get most of the rock out and fill back to the top? Would it be hard to turn in amendments if there are sill some rocks?

I know some of you have to deal with rocks all the time I hope you can help me!

~Tasha

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Comments (5)

Hosta_Haven
19 years ago
Tasha,

Are you planning to plant hosta there? Also, you don't say if this spot is facing the south, north, east or west...which I believe makes a difference.

I would think between the driveway, the path, and the fact that you're in zone 7, it would get a little warm for your hosta with the stones still in there.

You didn't say how large the bed is going to be. If it were me, I would dig all the remaining stones out. Sounds like an awful task but if you plan on ever making any changes in this bed, you'll be glad you did. On the other hand, if you never move things around, you could try just digging down about 12 inches for just the planting holes.

Zone 7 people, you would know a lot better than I ...I'm living in the warmest spot I ever have...zone 5A!

Char
Tasha
Original Author
19 years ago
Yes there will be some hosta. The house faces north, so it is semi-shaded. I am also going to plant a Crepe Myrtle to give even more shade.
Oh and we moved so I'm kinda in a 6b/7a spot. I am planning on planting varities that can take some sun and heat though just to be safe!

~Tasha
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highjack
19 years ago
Crepe myrtles are full sun plants so I don't know if it will perform to it's potential in a north facing area. You might consider a hydrangea which prefer a semi shade area. There are many to choose from, in all sizes and are perfect companions for hosta.
Tasha
Original Author
19 years ago
Half of the bed is full sun, that is where the crepe myrtle is going. I need that to make room for more hostas :)

I know I said the bed is next to the house the crepe myrtle would be about 6ft. out. I have been tracking the sun in the spot I want to plant it and it has all day sun. I guess because the house doesn't have a large overhang? It is even sunny now at 9 am. but that is one small part of the bed.
hostasformez4
19 years ago
We were just visiting friends in AR. and where they were it was mostly rock for soil! They have to bring in soil before they can plant anything, Hot Springs area.

Hopefully you can make friends with some of your new neighbors and find out how they deal with the soil conditions.

I just envy you your earlier Spring as we have to wait a few more weeks for ours!

Connie